Together We Are

Shaping Arizona's Future Economy

Together We Are

Shaping Arizona's Future Economy

About Us

Growth Partners Arizona is a Community Development Financial Institution (CDFI) helping entrepreneurs, small businesses, and nonprofits build financial confidence, strengthen their organizations, and access the capital they need to grow.

Through financial education, coaching, capital readiness programs, and responsible lending, we create clear pathways to sustainable growth and lasting community impact.

Our Mission

Provide accessible, fair, and responsible loans and support to Arizona nonprofits and economically underserved small businesses outside the economic mainstream.

Our Work

Centered on advancing economic opportunity across Arizona, we provide financial education, coaching, capital readiness programs, and financing solutions that help entrepreneurs, small businesses, and nonprofits grow with confidence. We Deliver Boldly by combining practical support, trusted partnerships, and clear pathways that help organizations strengthen their financial foundation, prepare for growth, and access capital when the time is right.

Our Team

Andre Whittington

Executive Director

Eleina Ouaffai

Strategic Initiatives & Operations Manager

Jackie McGuire

Loan Program Manager

Anahi Figueroa Gastelum

Financial Education Specialist

Gerardo Novoa

Client Success Specialist

Natalia Ronceria Ceballos

Financial Education Specialist

Qinana Dotson

Capital Access Advisor

Matt Beard

Program Manager (ASU Programs)

Our Board of Directors

Judie Scalise, Board Chair

Ashley Kelly, Vice Chair

Peggy Hutchison, Secretary/Treasurer

Benjamin Danner

Jonathan 'JT' Temple

Sabrina Espino

Karen Burns

Our Partners

Message from Our Executive Director

I believe our communities are strongest when we work together. Real progress happens when entrepreneurs, nonprofits, partners, and community leaders come together to create opportunities that benefit everyone. That belief is at the heart of Growth Partners Arizona and how we show up every day, building relationships, creating connections, and helping our communities thrive.